Archaeologists hunt for legendary treasure ship sunk in 1682 Iceland

Archaeologists are embarking on a treasure hunt off the coast of Iceland, seeking the wreck of the Hofðaskipið, which sank in 1682. Researchers have now pinpointed a search area spanning several dozen square kilometers, where they hope to find the vessel.

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It is a big milestone to have these maps, and there is tremendous work behind them. They need to be very accurate because we cannot just set off and start measuring.

"It is a big milestone to have these maps, and there is tremendous work behind them. They need to be very accurate because we cannot just set off and start measuring," said archaeologist Steinunn Kristjánsdóttir, who is leading the investigation with underwater archaeologist Ragnar Edvardsson. Despite the detailed mapping, finding the wreck remains uncertain.

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We are somewhat flying blind into the sea with this, in the fullest sense of the word, although we are quite optimistic.

"We are somewhat flying blind into the sea with this, in the fullest sense of the word, although we are quite optimistic," Kristjánsdóttir admitted. "It is a treasure hunt, I fully admit that, even if it doesn't sound very scientific. We are, of course, trying to see what was on board."

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It is a treasure hunt, I fully admit that, even if it doesn't sound very scientific. We are, of course, trying to see what was on board.

Historical sources indicate that the Hofðaskipið sank with more valuables than any other ship in Iceland's history. It is known that manuscript collector Hannes Þorleifsson was aboard, likely carrying his entire collection. "It is known that very important manuscripts were on board, including a copy of Sturlunga, which was known to exist in Þingeyrar," Kristjánsdóttir stated.

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It is known that very important manuscripts were on board, including a copy of Sturlunga, which was known to exist in Þingeyrar.